Smith County 4-H News
By Trent Jones
Smith County Extension Agent
Five years ago, on July 1, 2011, I was blessed with the opportunity to start my first day as the 4-H Agent here in Smith County. After spending 4 years as an Agent in Marshall County, Tennessee, I was excited to come back close to home in Smith County, and over the past five years, Smith County has become home to my family. I have been extremely proud to be a part of Smith County, and cannot say enough about how great of an environment we have here, to work, live, and raise a family. As someone who works with youth, I also cannot stress enough how well-mannered and polite the youth of this county are.
After much thought and prayer, I have been offered and have accepted a position as a 4-H Agent with the Putnam County UT Extension Office. Putnam County is my home county, and where my passion for 4-H began as a 4-H member. It will also be a great opportunity for me, my wife, and our children to live closer to our family. Therefore, I feel that this is an opportunity that I cannot let pass me by.
The Smith County 4-H Program truly means a great deal to me and I am extremely proud of the accomplishments that our 4-H’ers have made in the past and will continue to make into the future. The success of this youth program is largely due to the patience, encouragement and support of our teachers, volunteers, parents, and 4-H members! I have worked in many other school systems in the state, and none are as friendly, welcoming, and supportive as Smith County.
I may be saying farewell as I move to Putnam County, but I am not saying goodbye. I have told my 4-H’ers over the last nine years that I will always be here for them when they need help, guidance, or direction. I feel my job as a 4-H agent is to help the youth of our communities to gain positive life skills that will enable them to have a strong foundation on which they can build future success. I will always be available to any of our 4-H members that need assistance with 4-H activities, applying for college or scholarships, or whatever life may through at you. I challenge all our youth to continue to set high goals for your life, and to work hard to achieve them. You can do anything that you set your mind to, with hard work and determination.
Accepting this new position is exciting, however, I will certainly miss the 4-H’ers, families and working with so many wonderful people across Smith County!
Thanks for all the support and memories!
Trent Jones – Smith County 4-H Agent
